The Flourish Careers Podcast

✨ Have you ever found yourself instinctively reaching for a specific color, without even thinking about it?⁠ Maybe it's a bold red blazer on a day you need extra courage… or a soft blue sweater when your spirit craves calm.⁠ Color is so much more than just style—it's energy, emotion, and intuition speaking to us.

What if your second act could be even more meaningful than your first? Vasu Tolia is an extraordinary woman whose heart-led career path took her from medicine to art. She is a retired pediatrician who followed a quiet nudge that turned into a bold second act. After decades of caring for others through medicine, she channels that same compassion and creativity into her artwork. Her vibrant, socially conscious pieces are designed to inspire and heal—to bring beauty, reflection, and emotional comfort into the world. What I love most about our conversation is how honest and encouraging Vasu is about what it means to start over. We talked about fear, perfectionism, and the courage it takes to trust your inner voice. She reminded me (and hopefully you!) that creativity can be a powerful tool for healing—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Vasu shared how her work now lives in hospitals and educational spaces, offering peace in stressful places. We also explored how her medical background gave her transferable skills—empathy, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving—that show up in her art daily. If you're ready for a more creative path or simply curious about the connection of creativity + well-being, this episode is for you. Vasu's story is a beautiful reminder that the most fulfilling paths are the ones led by the heart.

Born to be creative, forced to think corporate? You're not alone. In this episode, I explore how creativity and courage can reignite your career, even if you don't consider yourself “artistic.” Through stories and reflections, let's discover how to bring creativity into your work, spark new ideas, and feel more like yourself again. If you've felt stuck or disconnected, this is your invitation to play, explore, and let creativity lead the way. Resources & Links Mentioned:

This week, we're continuing the conversation from last week because one of the most common questions I get is: “How do I navigate salary negotiations in a way that feels confident to me?” This best-of episode from The Flourish Careers Podcast vault features a conversation with fellow HR leader Sabine Gedeon, and it's one of our most-loved episodes for a reason. If salary conversations have ever felt awkward or overwhelming, this episode is your friendly roadmap to negotiating with heart and strategy. 

Show me the money! (without the awkwardness!) Let's be real—talking about salary at work can feel awkward… but it doesn't have to be! In this episode, I'm joined by my friend and fellow career coach, Yolanda Owens, and we're talking about how to approach money conversations confidently and clearly. We explore salary transparency—why it matters, how it builds trust, and what companies can do beyond sharing numbers. When done right, transparency can level the playing field, drive equity, and help everyone feel more empowered. Let's make talking about money feel less taboo and more empowering. 

Something magical happens when women come together with open hearts and a shared intention.✨ As the Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Letting Go e-book launches into the world (today!!!), I'm holding onto that sense of connection—because we're not meant to carry our stories alone. This special edition of the podcast is a celebration. I'm taking you behind the scenes of writing my chapter—the emotions and the courage it took to finally let go of what no longer fit. You'll hear how this experience became a powerful reminder of the strength in surrender and the beauty of community. A huge shout-out to the incredible women behind this book—Sue, Dominique, Jackie, Shawnte, Amy, Marilyn, LaRhonda, and Michelle—and our fearless leaders, Hope and Jen. Your bravery and honesty made this possible. Thank you for sharing your heart so generously.

Welcome back to the Flourish Careers Podcast and hello to Season 8! I'm so glad you're here.  Have you ever felt busy but not effective? Like you're checking boxes, racing through tasks, and still wondering if any of it matters? If you've been craving a different way to work—one that feels more aligned, sustainable, and true to you—this episode is the reset you didn't know you needed.   As the world around us speeds up, we're discussing something different: slowing down with intention and creating a career that energizes us.  P.S. Mark your calendar for next Tuesday! I'm celebrating the Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Letting Go eBook launch with a special behind-the-scenes bonus episode you won't want to miss.  

Have you ever pushed through a long workday only to feel utterly drained—like no amount of caffeine or sleep could recharge you? That exhaustion might signal that it's time to realign your energy. In this final episode of Season 7, we're wrapping up by focusing on energy. Your energy flows through five key dimensions, and everything feels harder when even one is off. Instead of pushing through, try shifting your energy. A slight realignment today can lead to big results. That's a wrap on Season 7! I'll be back in a few weeks, but until then, thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting this show. You mean the world to me! The Flourish Careers Podcast is proudly highlighted in the Top Career Podcast Guide

First impressions don't happen in person anymore—they happen online. So, what does your digital presence say about you? In this episode, I talk with Paige Arnof-Fenn, founder of Mavens & Moguls, to discuss the art of personal branding. First, let's be clear: you are not a “brand.” You are a human being with values, experiences, and aspirations that shape how you show up in your career. ♥ Join us to discuss building a brand that genuinely represents you—flaws, quirks, and all! From optimizing your LinkedIn profile to dodging the biggest branding mistakes, Paige shares plenty of actionable tips to help you stand out and stay unforgettable. 

When life feels overwhelming, it's not just our to-do lists that need clearing—it's our habits, routines, and spaces. Part 2 of our Spring Cleaning series goes beyond career clutter to reset your mind, body, spirit, and space.  Join me as I share personal stories—including the inspiration behind my favorite mantra, “Nourish to Flourish,”—along with practical strategies to help you shift from feeling overwhelmed to feeling in control. The goal isn't to do more—it's to make space for what counts. ♥  

Is your work life feeling cluttered and overwhelming? It might be time for some Spring Cleaning—but not the kind that involves your desk. In this episode, we're tackling career clutter—those tasks, commitments, and habits that drain your energy and hold you back from doing your best work. + Discover why career clutter silently saps your creativity and productivity + Learn to identify time-stealing tasks that no longer serve you + Master the 4D framework (Decide, Delegate, Digitize, Drop) to declutter and refocus + Take on the 7-day ‘Clear the Career Clutter' challenge for immediate impact Tune in and start making space for what matters most!

If the word "networking" makes you cringe or feels like something you should do but secretly avoid, this conversation is for you. In this special episode, I'm joined by my friend and colleague, Julianna Yao Yorgan, host of The Daring to Succeed Podcast. Together, we're diving into a topic that often feels overwhelming but doesn't have to be—networking. We're here to flip the script and show you that networking isn't about forced small talk, self-promotion, or working a crowded room. It's about authentic, heart-centered connections that support your personal and professional growth. You'll hear real-life stories, simple strategies, and practical tips to help you build natural and fulfilling relationships—whether introverted, extroverted or somewhere in between. So, grab your favorite beverage, take a deep breath, and reimagine networking in a way that feels genuine, empowering, and aligned with your heart. Connect with Julianna on LinkedIn Connect with Jenn on LinkedIn | Instagram | Pinterest The Flourish Careers Podcast is proudly highlighted in the Top Career Podcast Guide

Have you ever felt stuck in a career you “fell into,” wondering if there's something more fulfilling out there? I'm thrilled to introduce you to Denise Wolf. Denise's story is a masterclass in perseverance and purpose—a reminder that even when we "fall into" something, we can rise with intention and impact.  Denise began as a first-generation college graduate who "fell into" retail management in her early twenties. But deep down, she craved more—a purpose-driven career aligned with her passion for helping others. Through soul-searching and dedication, she made her way into higher education and career coaching. In this episode, we explore how finding your path isn't always a straight line—sometimes, it's a winding road that leads you exactly where you're meant to be.

Ever wondered what secrets a corporate recruiter wishes every job seeker knew? I'm delighted to introduce you to Yolanda Owens—renowned career coach, award-winning author, and founder of CareerSensei Consulting. With 20+ years as a corporate recruiter, Yolanda shares insider secrets to help you navigate the job market clearly and confidently. Yolanda also shares her inspiring journey from indecision to creating a career that blends her talents and purpose. This episode is packed with actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and a healthy dose of fun. Tune in and grab your favorite notebook; you'll want to take notes!  ✨ Connect with Yolanda Website | LinkedIn | Book: How to Score a Date with Your Potential Employer   

This February, we're doing something special—an entire month of interview episodes!

What if quitting your job wasn't about failure or giving up but about finishing one chapter and starting a better one? Leaving a role can feel heavy, especially with guilt, fear, or uncertainty holding you back. But here's the truth: quitting isn't giving up—it's an act of courage that honors your growth and opens the door to what lights you up. In this episode, we'll cover: Why quitting isn't giving up—it's completing a chapter. A step-by-step guide to quit with grace and make your transition seamless. How to embrace joyful ambition and define success on your terms. The Flourish Careers Podcast is proudly highlighted in the Top Career Podcast Guide

It's time to rethink how we approach goal setting. Instead of rigid, all-or-nothing goals, let's embrace a more flexible and values-driven approach: set intentions. Many of us struggle with the pressure to meet strict goals while navigating life's unpredictable twists. This is your invitation to realign with a goal-setting method rooted in purpose, grace, and adaptability. Tune in for all the details! Let's make this year one of intention and joyful ambition where we move forward with purpose.

Welcome back to The Flourish Careers Podcast! Season 7 is here, and we're kicking things off with a bang—a three-part series designed to help you set the foundation for a vibrant year ahead.  What if your career wasn't about climbing a ladder but collecting meaningful experiences aligning with your values? That's the idea we're exploring in today's episode—an idea that completely changed my perspective years ago when a mentor asked me a significant question: “What kind of experiences do you want to gain?” And because inspiration can come from anywhere, we're drawing lessons from the one and only Snoop Dogg! From rapper to entrepreneur, cookbook author to TV personality, Snoop's career proves that success isn't about rigid plans—it's about saying yes to opportunities that spark excitement. Join me in redefining growth and starting this year with purpose.

Ever wonder how to bring up time off during a job interview? In this Season 6 finale, we're diving into the often-tricky topic of discussing time off with potential employers. Join me in exploring why rest is crucial and how to approach conversations around vacation confidently. Let's discuss: Pro tips for bringing up a vacation in an interview without disrupting the vibe. The reality vs. culture of vacation days and unlimited PTO—why these benefits often go unused. Practical ways to incorporate rest into your daily routine, boosting well-being and productivity. As we wrap up Season 6, I'm taking my advice and resting through the holidays. I'll return in January to start Season 7 with fresh insights + ideas.

Have you ever noticed someone who lights up the whole room? Their confidence seems effortless, like maybe they're “just born with it.” But the truth? Confidence is built—choice by choice, from the inside out. In today's episode, Rachel Brooks shares what really goes into creating a confident, heart-based career and lifestyle. Spoiler alert! It isn't about trying to please, perform, or perfect. It's built through authentic experiences and letting go of external pressures.   Join us for relatable stories on building confidence and creating a career you love—one intentional move at a time.

Say goodbye to rigid reviews and resolutions! This year, make your year-end reflection meaningful with a heart-centered approach:

Welcome to the world of portfolio careers—I love this exciting and flexible approach to work. Whether you're feeling stagnant in your current role, exploring new interests, or seeking more flexibility, a portfolio career allows you to balance multiple roles and income streams, creating a fulfilling and resilient professional life. Join me to explore: What a portfolio career is and how it works. Who benefits most from this dynamic career path. Practical steps to start cultivating your portfolio career. If you're ready to diversify your work life and explore a career path that offers flexibility, creative fulfillment, and financial security, this episode is for you.

What if the toughest moments in your career were the very foundation of your confidence? Today, Jen Pestikas shares her unfiltered story of resilience—how stepping into discomfort shaped her confidence and leadership. She recounts the profound impact of losing a close colleague, an experience that tested her strength and reshaped her approach to leadership and life. Jen doesn't sugarcoat it—careers are challenging, and real growth demands embracing the messy parts. Real talk highlights:

Welcome back! This week, we explore the often-overlooked strategy of the bridge job. Whether you're feeling stuck, burnt out, or considering a career pivot, a bridge job offers financial stability, mental clarity, and skill-building opportunities to help you transition toward your long-term career goals. Bridge Jobs as Stepping Stones: Temporary roles that support career transitions, providing stability and space to plan your next move. Who Benefits: Ideal for career changers, burnt-out professionals, and those re-entering the workforce. Beyond the Paycheck: Bridge jobs offer emotional and professional growth, helping you stay grounded and build new skills.  Could a bridge job be the strategic move you need? Tune in to learn more.   The Flourish Careers Podcast is proudly highlighted in the Top Career Podcast Guide 2024

Have you ever started a project that excites you, only to find yourself constantly putting it off?

As the air turns crisp and leaves fall in Western New York, I'm inspired to let go of what no longer serves us.

Imagine standing at a career crossroads, your head pulling you in one direction and your heart urging you toward another.  Heather Eck faced this dilemma when two opportunities landed on the same day: a chance to showcase her artwork in a solo exhibition or accept a promotion in her corporate HR career.  Choosing to follow her heart, Heather became a fine artist. Today, she is not only a modern fine artist but also a mystic, author, and spiritual teacher. Heather hosts inspiring workshops and creates Spirit Portraits, embodying the true spirit of Heart Art. Spirit Portraits are vivid, soulful expressions captured through color. ✨ When I commissioned Heather to paint a Spirit Portrait, I was amazed by her intuitive insight. The entire experience was not only fun but also profoundly expansive. I encourage you to book one today!  I LOVED interviewing Heather, and I'm excited that you will hear her inspiring story. Heather's path is a powerful testament to the magic that unfolds when we genuinely listen to our inner voice, leading us to a fulfilling HEART-based path.

Welcome to season 6! Have you ever felt a surge of motivation at the start of something new? That's the fresh start effect at work. In this psychological phenomenon, new beginnings, such as the dawn of a new day, week, month, or significant personal milestones like birthdays (or a new podcast season!), inspire us to pursue goals with renewed energy. These moments provide a clean slate, allowing us to leave behind past setbacks and move forward with renewed behaviors and mindsets. In today's episode, we dive into how you can use the fresh start effect to boost your career at any point: Learn from Jordan's HEART-based career change—a fresh start inspired by a milestone birthday.   Discover how to spot and ignite a fresh start. Explore how to create meaningful rituals and intentions to maintain momentum from a fresh start.    Don't miss the chance to transform your career with the magic of a fresh start.

Season 5 Finale!

Hello, and welcome back to the final episode in this three-part series dedicated to my fellow introverts. This episode focuses on how introverts can comfortably promote their work. Join me to learn three practical tips: How to Best Use Written Communication  Make the Most of One-on-One Conversations  Collaborate and Share Credit  Elevate your presence and showcase our unique strengths in a way that works for you. 

Welcome back to Part 2 of the Introvert Career Diaries. This week let's tackle the often daunting concept of visibility in the workplace. If the thought of self-promotion and being in the spotlight makes you cringe, this episode is for you! Join me to discuss:  How to be present and involved without being the loudest in the room The power of engaging in thoughtful dialogue and asking insightful questions The impact of sharing suggestions that build on your team's ideas Visibility doesn't mean changing who you are. It's about showcasing your unique strengths in an authentic and comfortable way. 

I'm thrilled to kick off a special three-part series: "Introvert Career Diaries." Shout out to Jessica for this brilliant idea! In this first episode, I'm diving into interview tips specifically for introverts. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by interviews, this one's for you. Here's what you'll learn: Prepare Your Schedule: Keep your interview day stress-free by minimizing commitments and creating a calm environment. Navigate Small Talk: Tackle those awkward small talk moments with prepared topics and clever conversation redirection. Embrace Thoughtful Responses: Take your time, use the OAR method for structured answers, and harness the power of nonverbal communication. Interviews are a chance to showcase your unique strengths; with this guidance, you'll be ready to shine!

Raise your hand if you've ever hesitated to take PTO?

Have you ever grappled with the decision to accept a job offer that falls short of our salary expectations?  Picture this: you've aced the interviews and are gearing up for the final round, but then comes the bombshell—the company can't budge on the salary, leaving you with a significant gap between what you want and what they offer. So, what now? First, unpack the entire compensation package. Next, assess your lifestyle values.   Then, get honest about your long-term goals. Of course, you must consider your financial implications and what you need to be happy + healthy in this season of your career.   There's no one-size-fits-all solution here, but by carefully weighing these factors, you'll make the right call for your heart-based path.

Welcome back to '5 Minutes to Flourish', where I share quick, actionable tips to enhance your work and well-being. Today, let's tackle this challenging interview question: "Tell me about a time you made a mistake." Interviewers don't ask this question to catch you off guard; they want to understand how you handle challenges, evaluate your self-awareness, and gauge your capacity to learn and grow. Join me to discuss: - How to choose the right mistake to share - The framework for a compelling response - Examples to help you craft your answer Turn this tricky question into an opportunity to showcase your resilience and growth mindset. Keep your story structured, emphasizing learning and improvement.  

Today, we're discussing one of the toughest questions many heart-based professionals face at some point: Should I stay or go? Imagine this: you're at a career crossroads. That inner whisper tells you something needs to change, but you're worried and not sure what to do next.   Join me as we consider three inquiries to support your decision; remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. But by exploring these inquiries, you can uncover the next best step forward. So, my friends, let's channel the wisdom of The Clash's famous song: "Should I stay or should I go?" But it's not about the song; it's about finding our rhythm in the symphony of our heart-based careers.

Summer is here

Imagine walking into your workspace and being instantly welcomed by a splash of colors, vibrant images, and inspiring words perfectly capturing your HEART-based career goals.

We're halfway through the year, and it's the perfect time for a mid-year check-in. Instead of skimming through your accomplishments, let's dive into a ritual I call Gratitude for Growth: Flourish: Reflect on what you've achieved and how far you've come; celebrate your wins, big and small.  Cultivate Connections: Consider the mentors, colleagues, and friends who have supported you. Take a moment to send them a note of appreciation. Grow: Consider how you've expanded your skills and knowledge. Embrace these opportunities as stepping stones to future success. Nourish: Reflect on how you've cared for your mind, body, and spirit. Think about how you've found balance and how to keep that momentum going. These reflections aren't just about the past—they're seeds for future growth. Let them inspire you to pursue your heart-based path with purpose. As we move into the second half of the year, let's carry this spirit of gratitude and reflection with us.

Do you often dread the start of another week, knowing that your job is draining your energy? If so, you're not alone. The good news is that we can change this.    Let's shift our mindset—focus on possibilities, not limitations. Set energizing, HEART-based goals that resonate with your values. Instead of running away from what drains us, let's run toward what excites us. Don't underestimate the power of shaking up your routine. While stability is comforting, it doesn't always lead to growth. Introducing new habits and rituals can create space for exploration and innovation, leading to a more fulfilling path. Lastly, let's talk about momentum. In physics, an object in motion gains momentum. Investing just five minutes a day in ourselves can ignite that momentum in our careers.

Welcome to Season 5 of The Flourish Careers Podcast! I'm excited to share our special summer series, "5 Minutes to Flourish." This series is part of our HEART-based career planning approach, where the "T" stands for "Take Tiny Action." The idea is simple: dedicating just 5 minutes a day to your professional growth can make a big difference in our busy lives. Setting a timer, taking a deep breath, and committing to a tiny action will create momentum and make consistent progress. These actions can be as simple as researching new industries or listening to short, impactful episodes like this one. Over time, you'll see how these small steps add to significant progress in your career path. Summer is the season of short shorts, refreshing dips, and quick getaways. And what better time to apply that same principle to your personal and professional development?  Join me each week for short + sharp episodes designed to fit perfectly into your summertime schedule. Don't miss out — tune in today, and let's flourish together!

Welcome back! Today, we are wrapping up the Classroom to Career series and closing out season 4 with an episode dedicated to embracing uncertainty. I know how hard it can be to embrace uncertainty, although doing so can lead to personal growth and fresh opportunities. Focus on what excites you and aligns with your values. Notice the subtle hints and signals around you—they can guide you toward aligned opportunities. Stay curious, proactive, and open-minded, and you'll navigate your career with confidence and purpose.

Welcome back to the 'Classroom to Career' series for students and recent grads! In this episode, we'll explore how to elevate your summer internship experience. I like to think of internships as your exclusive backstage pass to see if a company aligns with your values and career goals. It's your chance to check out the environment and see if it works for you. By rolling up your sleeves, building connections, and showing your enthusiasm for what's next, you'll be set for a smooth transition into full-time work.

Students and recent grads, listen up (or those who know a student or recent grad)! I'm launching a three-part podcast series just for you: Classroom to Career. Don't miss out on this opportunity to kickstart your post-graduation career path

Imagine crafting your career path not based on the latest trends or external pressures but on the solid ground of your most resounding beliefs.  Picture every decision, every step forward, aligned with the principles that resonate with YOU. That's the power of a values-driven career path.  I'm thrilled to have Laura Eigel join me for this critical conversation. Tune in to this month's segment of Flourishing Together, where Laura provides: Practical ideas on determining your values  Personal stories about what a values-aligned career feels like Guidance on taking steps toward a values-aligned career path  I especially love her perspective on initiating open conversations about your values at work—having honest chats with yourself and your manager to support your career path.  This is a must-listen; I wish someone had taught me this early in my career.

Welcome to this week's episode of The Flourish Careers Podcast! Today, we're discussing a crucial aspect of navigating your heart-based career path: curiosity. Have you ever received guidance that changed your career? For me, it was "always remain open and teachable." These words have been my guiding light, opening doors to fresh opportunities. I love the idea of thinking about our career as a lifelong adventure; every experience is a chance to grow.  Join me to learn how you can embrace the power of remaining open, watch your career flourish, and stay forever in bloom.  Be sure to tune in until the very end to hear the hysterical gift from my brother and his family; I use it as a daily reminder to cultivate curiosity by letting go and inviting a little play into my day.

Have you ever had a boss who stifled creativity, never provided guidance when needed, or ruled with fear?

Raise your hand if you have ever struggled with perfectionism, worrying about perception, and/or people-pleasing?!